Cascade Chronicle 2013-14 Issue 1

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Dedicated to Developing Discerning

Leaders

Don JohnsonSuperintendent of Schools

Mary SevereidAssistant SuperintendentEarly Learning/Elementary/Extended School

Glenna Frederick, Ed.DAssistant SuperintendentSecondary/International

Tim Kleefeld, CPADirector of Business and Finance

Rob MittonDirector of Development

Naomi WarrenDirector of Admissions

Susan CrawfordDirector of Marketingand Communications

Junior High & High SchoolAdministrative Team:Joyce Blum

Suzanne KeilKeith Patefi eldDave Peterson

Frederickson Elementary & ELCDebi Boyd, Principal and Executive Director

Puyallup ELCKaren Curtiss, Executive Director

Puyallup ElementaryTerry Broberg, Principal

Tacoma Elementary & ELCLisa Metzger, Principal and Executive Director

This issue of the Chronicle reported and written by commercial freelance writer Kristy Bingham.

Design and layout byCCS parent Michelle De Monnin forDe Monnin’s Art Studio, Inc.

The Chronicle is a publication of Cascade Christian Schools, an interdenominational school district in Pierce County, Washington.

On the Cover: CCHS Frederickson Elementary student Ethan Mitchell rehearses for their next performance.

Cover photo by: Michelle De Monnin

Additional photography in this issue by: Michelle De Monnin, Mike Centioli, and others.

For more information about Cascade Christian Schools:cascadechristian.org | 253-841-1776Development/Business Partner information: Rob MittonAdmissions information: Naomi WarrenStory ideas for the Cascade Chronicle: Susan Crawford

Cascade Christian Schools Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to StudentsCascade Christian Schools admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Seniors prepare for

IMPACT

SportsTrainingFacility

Opening

Junior HighFootball Wins Championship

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Core PurposeTransforming cultures through teach-ing and training people in their purpose before God.

MissionTo glorify God by providing quality, Christ-centered education dedicated to developing discerning leaders who are spiritually, personally, and academically prepared to impact their world.

As I look over all of the wonderful articles in this edition of the Chronicle, I am impressed by what it takes to have IMPACT!

Being impactful on those around us takes many forms, infl uenced by our strengths, talents, and our spiritual gifting, and so often our greatest impact is in teaming up with others.

In this Chronicle, you will see all of the people God uses to fulfi ll our mission here at Cascade Christian Schools. There are employees who we appreciate and honor for their commitment to God and their calling to CCS. There are volunteers who impact through their service, whether on our Board of Directors or through their campus Parents for Cascade work. We have many alumni who, at CCS, learned their purpose before God and matured into discerning leaders who now impact their communities. The profi les in this Chronicle demonstrate individuals partnering with each other in teams to make an impact wherever they serve and live.

One of our highly valued partnerships, our core team, is with our families and parents. You’re the reason we love to do what we do at Cascade Christian – providing our students with a quality, Christ-centered education that will help them make a positive impact in their world.

The most important team we will ever be on in this life, as individuals, is God’s team. God invites us to follow Him – with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength – so that through His power and wisdom we can IMPACT our world for Him!

Don Johnson,

Superintendent of Schools

Locationswww.cascadechristian.org

District Offi ce | 815 21st Street SE | Puyallup, WA 98372 | 253-841-1776

Junior High and High School | 811 21st Street SE | Puyallup, WA 98372 | 253-445-9706

Puyallup Elementary | 601 9th Avenue SE | Puyallup, WA 98372 | 253-841-2091

Puyallup Early Learning Center | 1818 S Meridian | Puyallup, WA 98371 | 253-848-7165

Frederickson Elementary and ELC | 3425 176th Street E | Tacoma, WA 98445253-537-9339 Elementary | 253-537-5195 ELC

Tacoma Elementary and ELC | 1819 E 72nd Street | Tacoma, WA 98404 | 253-473-0590

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As the school year came to a close last year, so did the careers of two long-time members of Cascade Christian Schools’ Board of Directors, Peter Laney and Randy Johnson.

Between the two of them, they have nearly twenty years of experience on the Board and, while they both agree they will still be involved with Cascade Christian, they are eager to see what roads God takes them down next.

For Laney, he knows God has called

Board Members RetireJohnson and Laney eager for God’s new path for them.

New Board Member AppointedBratvold honored to take on new position.

BOARD RECOGNITION

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him to be a hospital chaplain. The father of three Cascade Christian alumni, Laney is currently enrolled in a Clinical Pastoral Education program at Good Samaritan Hospital which will be completed in May 2013. After his course concludes, he is looking forward to entering seminary.

“I am constantly amazed when I work with people, at the deep hurt that comes along with life,” he said. “There is a way out and God is with us through the dark times and bad

choices. He is just waiting for us with His open arms. He wants us to receive His comfort and share that with people.”

During his time on the Board, Laney served originally as a founding church representative from 1998-2001, and then came back again as a Member-at-Large,

starting in 2007. He vividly remembers feeling overwhelmed because, as he explained, “the learning curve was so steep.”

However, despite the steep learning curve, he says he kept serving faithfully for so long because he believed in the people of Cascade Christian and the mission.

While he recognizes the work is important, he says the time is right for him to move on.

“It always seems to be an issue of

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Peter LaneyRandy Johnson

Newly appointed Board member Dr. Tye Bratvold said the decision to educate his children at Cascade Christian was a simple one, and he is looking forward to his time on the Board to help kids realize what God’s plan is for their lives.

“There is such excellence that comes out of Cascade Christian,” he said. “My wife Anita and I wanted that for our daughters.” The Bratvolds have two daughters that have been at Cascade Christian since preschool, and are now 10 and 6 years old.

“I have loved watching their growth, and to be part of this amazing team I feel so humbled,” he said.

Bratvold, a Chiropractor, said he has always had a passion for helping

his patients reach the

highest level of health.

“In order to be successful with this, I work hard at giving them the tools needed to achieve these goals,” he explained. “I was very honored when asked to be on the CCS Board because I knew this meant I would be a part of helping the most amazing children of God reach their highest life potential. Kids’ futures are my passion and there is nothing more satisfying than to see them be successful at whatever it is God has intended for them.”

“I love it that Tye has the strength of being ‘Restorative,’” said Greg Carder, CCS Board of Directors’ Vice Chair/Secretary. “He has an easy-going demeanor, and

he clearly enjoys challenges and is energized by restoring people and situations to ‘health’. I’ve been impressed with his humility and his focus on contributing to the success of God’s work, through Cascade Christian Schools.”

Fellow CCS Board of Directors’ Treasurer, Tom Walrath, agrees. “I love to see Tye’s passion for personal health and his desire to see people (kids, especially) grow and succeed,” he explained. “He models this in his everyday business. He has a desire

to see kids thrive in whatever they are doing. He donates his time to the CCS athletes that need chiropractic care. He wants to do whatever he can to help people get better. He is extremely good-hearted and he loves the Lord.”

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

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Teaching and Training People…Honoring the commitment of those who serve CCS.

Each year at the August all-district in-service, employees are honored as they reach the fi ve, ten, and fi fteen-year marks of helping fulfi ll the mission and purpose of Cascade Christian Schools. Team leaders are called on to provide commendations for the strengths and commitment of these employees.

15-year RecognitionJune Corley, Puyallup Elementary, Teacher

June Corley has taught 6th grade faithfully in our school. Being the mother of four CCS graduates, she well understands what her students need to know as they move on to junior high. Her pleasant smile and willing attitude are greatly appreciated.

Judy Didier, Puyallup Elementary, Teacher

Judy Didier says “yes, I will help” every time. She strives to be a creative and engaging teacher every day. Having fun is a hallmark of her classroom and she wants every student to succeed. She is the mother of two CCS grads and all of her children have been part of our schools.

Glenna Frederick, District Offi ce,

Assistant Superintendent of Secondary/International

The fi rst thing that comes to mind when I think of Dr. Frederick’s service the last fi fteen years at CCS is student learning. In every position that Glenna has held, she has used her many wonderful gifts to increase student learning and support our teachers. Glenna brings her own desire to learn by always researching the best benchmarks and learning models that help us to be in a continuous improvement mode here at CCS. Glenna has been consistent and loyal to the purpose and mission of CCS, for which I am very grateful.

Kali McCrady, High School, Teacher

Kali is a focused, hard worker. The wonderful thing about Kali is that her focus is not necessarily on the task at hand – it is on the person she is with, be it student or co-worker. She has the ability to see and appreciate the uniqueness of each individual. In her teaching she applies this to her students, helping them to appreciate the unique way God has gifted them. Kali’s quick wit and dry sense of humor is a great addition to any meeting and can bring a little lightness if things are getting a bit too heavy. Kali’s love of God, her family and her students keep her focused on the bigger picture and are the core of why she has stayed in this

In MemoriamTheresa (Terri) Matz

Born in Duarte, CA, Terri was the second of three siblings to Wilbur (Bill) and Mary Vassar. Terri often talked about her life-changing experience in Junior High of accepting Christ at a Billy Graham Crusade. Her experience at this Crusade was the building block to a life serving others for the glory not of man but of God the Father.

After graduating from Glendora High School, Terri acquired a degree of English at California State University. It was during her years as a mom to two little boys in the small town of La Verne, California, that Terri began her life-long ministry of being a vessel for God’s Word. Through her years as a military spouse and mother of four, Terri made friendships all over the country. Selfl essly, she gave to many -- mentoring and counseling not only women in the church, but young wives in Lou’s squadrons, mothers in the neighborhood, and women in the workplace. The number of people touched by Terri is countless, and she was always too humble to realize or take credit for the work God did through her.

The legacy Terri left to her family is one of a woman who was often found on her knees beside her bed, praying and studying the word of God, earnestly desiring to know Him more. Her passion for learning applied not only to her spiritual life but to her everyday life. Terri never showcased her gift of creativity -- but those who knew her understood how creative and artistic she really was!

Terri has blessed others as a wife, a mother, a soul mate, a servant, a blessing, and a best friend. To all who knew her, they knew that the words she longed to hear she fi nally heard on Sunday, December 16: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Cascade Christian Schools was blessed to have been part of Terri’s life, and will miss her greatly.

See 5-year and 10-year Recognition employees on page 22

In 1985, Gail Mehrer found herself needing a little extra money to help pay for her children’s schooling at Puyallup Valley Christian School, a predecessor school for Cascade Christian Schools. The Lord opened a door for her as a Teacher’s Assistant in the 3-year-old classroom.

“That simple step of going through a door God provided led me on a journey I didn’t expect when I answered His call,” Mehrer refl ected.

After starting as the Teacher’s Assistant, Mehrer said her journey went on to include music teacher in the classroom, Pre-Kindergarten assistant then Pre-K Lead Teacher, 4-year-old Lead Teacher, Director of Early Childhood Education, and Early Learning Specialist.

“I have worn a lot of hats during my time at Cascade Christian,” she said. “Every time my job changed, I took a step of faith that God would equip me to do what He called me to do.” ______________________________________________________

“Preschool is so rewarding and fun. There is so much love from these children; it is addicting. My passion is helping others and trying to impact others’ lives. What better place that with God’s children?”______________________________________________________

As her titles changed and grew, Mehrer was determined to evolve with them. When asked to take over the music, she wanted to make sure the children had the best possible experience. So she enrolled in a music class at Pierce College. While there, one of Mehrer’s teachers noticed her potential and encouraged Mehrer to keep pursuing her degree.

“I took it one class at a time and six years later I fi nally did it,” Mehrer said proudly. “I was so motivated by my co-workers and the parents and children; I was proud of what I had accomplished.”

She said there have been some challenging times juggling school, her own family responsibilities, and ever-changing work duties and responsibilities. However, she added that her experiences have been a faith-builder for her.

“In those times, you have to depend on God,” she said. “The more you depend on God, the greater your faith becomes. The greater your faith becomes, the easier it is to know He will make a way when you humanly see no other way it can be done.”

A Step of Faith Leads to a Career of ServiceA simple step of faith led Gail Mehrer down a 27-year road she will never forget.

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

After 27 years, Mehrer said, many people have questioned her ability to stay with one age group for so long. But from Mehrer’s point of view, the choice was simple.

“Why not?!” she said. “Preschool is so rewarding and fun. There is so much love from these children; it is addicting. My passion is helping others and trying to impact others’ lives. What better place than with God’s children? These children feed your soul in such a way it is incredible. The way they show joy on their face when you read them a story and you have them in the palm of your hand, their amazement of science when they discover something, all of this is the biggest appeal of early learning.”

Assistant Superintendent Mary Severeid said, “Gail is a consummate early learning professional and has been part of the landscape of my Cascade Christian Schools journey as a fellow CCS parent and a co-laborer. We have watched our children grow up together; and we have watched Cascade Christian grow up, together.”

Severeid continued, “I have always enjoyed working with her, no matter the task or new venture. She brings a great faith and a delightful sense of humor to our endeavors and a dedicated responsibility to complete the task.”

As Mehrer moves into her retirement, she is eager to embrace God’s next journey for her life. While she currently has no formal plan, she said she is willing to try things out to see where God leads her and to simply let herself be available. Mehrer currently has grandchildren at Tacoma Elementary, the Junior High, and the High School campuses, and also has a grandchild who is a CCHS alumni.

“I can’t imagine our lives without Cascade Christian,” she said. “It continues to be a huge part of our lives. Maybe four or fi ve years ago I thought about retiring, but I just couldn’t let go. I was making a diff erence and while, yes, it was a job, the truth was I was doing something for the Lord.”

She is able to recall several moments where she has been privileged to cross paths with a former student and further explained that she loves seeing who they have become, because oftentimes they demonstrated their strengths in preschool. One example she spoke of included a student who, in preschool, aced every math test she gave him.

“Math was so easy for him,” she said. “He didn’t even have to think about the answer. When I saw his mom years later she told me he was in an advanced math class and I thought

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Congratulations

2013 Daff odil Princess

Kabrina Kidd

CCS Cheer Clinic 2012

Fo

llo

w U

s

LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Well done, princess candidates Michaela

Bahr and Jamie Fox. Thank you to escorts

Thomas Copeland, AJ Howells,

and Jacob Kelly.

Extended School:

“A Day in the Life”

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CCS 4th Grader, Sydney, enjoying her

morning at Extended School.

Studying hard.

Learning about

God in class.

Cupcake Club after school.

Early

morning

drop off and

good-bye by

mom.

Enjoying

some time

outdoors.

Extended School provides options, fun, and learning for students outside the school day.

Cascade Christian Schools’ three elementary campuses off er a premier Extended School program which provides CCS families with much-needed options for the success of their students. Students in the Extended School program are provided with loving care, supervision, and instruction as they enjoy a variety of enriching activities with their school friends. Professional staff members guide children as they learn new concepts, acquire skills and explore potential new hobbies in a safe, fun and nurturing environment.

Extended School is available during non-school hours from 6 a.m. (6:30 at Puyallup) until 6 p.m. This program is also available for half-days and no-school days.

The before-school program helps students to jump start their day with social skill building, a nutritional and spiritual boost, and an opportunity to study or complete their homework.

The after-school program provides various enrichment activities following the regular school day. Children can enjoy relaxed time to socialize with friends through games, crafts, snack time, and indoor and outdoor play. Enrichment classes are available and vary quarterly, at an additional cost. Ballet, Drama, Taekwondo, Sewing, Art, Soccer, Cooking, Science and Piano lessons are a few examples.

Parents for Cascade is every Cascade Christian parent. Parents work behind the scenes at each campus of the district providing support to administrators and teachers, as well as participating in district-wide committees, to keep things running smoothly and fulfi ll the CCS mission and purpose. This month, The Chronicle interviewed PfC volunteer Aleitha Nichols.

For Aleitha Nickels, the decision to volunteer was an easy one.

The Nickels’ have three children. Savanna is a 2012 CCS graduate; their oldest daughter Terra, her husband Thomas and their 16-month-old granddaughter live in Santa Rita, Guam; and their youngest, Michael, is now a Junior in High School. She has volunteered in her children’s classrooms and school buildings since they were in Kindergarten. She has held a variety of positions, from classroom support manager to a lead parent in Parents for Cascade.

______________________________________________________

“I have had an amazing life, and Cascade Christian is a huge part of that.” ______________________________________________________

“I believe in teamwork,” she said. “And I have been blessed to serve on some amazing teams during my kids’ time at Cascade.”

Nickels added, “While at the elementary level volunteering is mainly classroom based, once our kids move on to the secondary level, we shifted where we serve since junior high and high school teachers don’t always need classroom help in a direct fashion. It is much more event-driven assistance.”

Nickels explained that the decision years ago to choose Cascade Christian as the school for their growing family was one based on hearing God’s direction for their kids.

“Our church was on the Frederickson campus and I remember seeing administrators and teachers work with kids in a way that went beyond basic education,” she said. “We felt called to put our children here to enhance what we were teaching at home.”

But for Nickels, the calling to put her kids at Cascade Christian also left a calling on her heart to serve.

“My desire was to serve where my children were, and to be involved,” she said. “This is what I am supposed to be doing and it is important to us to be active where our family is

Nickels says she is “blessed to serve.”For Aleitha Nickels, the decision to serve was an easy one.

VOLUNTEER PROFILE

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connected.”

She has faithfully volunteered for nearly 15 years and said it isn’t like her to only do something for a short period of time. As she views it, raising her family is her number one priority. While she looks forward to the next chapter of her life once her son graduates, she keeps a servant’s heart attitude and is grateful for the time she has left.

“I have had an amazing life,” she said. “And Cascade is a huge part of that. I look at my kids. They are the most precious things my husband and I could have ever been gifted with. Am I tired? Absolutely! But I want them to know that they are so loved, and that we care.”

She is humbly proud of who her children have grown up to be, and said she doesn’t volunteer so that she can meddle in her children’s lives. In her eyes, as they have grown older ,she said, “I am not here to breathe for them and hover over them. I want them to know that I still care about what they are doing. In my eff ort to support the teachers and administration I am, in a way, supporting my child by making sure they have many possibilities to fully grow into who God has designed them to be.”

“My mom is amazing,” said Michael Nickels. “She is always there for me and I appreciate her and all she has done for me and the school.”

Nickels said there is a place for everyone to volunteer at Cascade Christian. Speaking specifi cally about volunteering at the elementary level, she said there are many diff erent opportunities to be involved. From volunteering in the classroom, to specifi c events, or to being involved with each campus Parents for Cascade group, the volunteer options seem plentiful. However, she has found that as students rise up through the ranks and become older, the volunteer options are still drastically needed. While the immediate need is no longer directly in the classroom, the focus shifts to the behind the scenes work.

“I realize each of us as parents have a variety of demands on us every day,” she said. “Even if you think your student

doesn’t want you directly involved, that’s okay. There is still a spot for you. We are able to use any abilities you have. Even if it is just to drop off a pie for an event, we will gladly take that pie!”

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PREPARED TO IMPACT THEIR WORLD

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Preparing Students in their Purpose Before GodFive seniors share how CCS, and College Guidance, has helped shape their future.

As Cascade Christian Schools heads into its twentieth year, more than 1150 students have graduated, prepared to impact their world. The Chronicle interviewed four soon-to-be graduates, heading in various directions according to God’s purpose for their lives, and asked them what and who helped give them direction as they prepare for life after high school.

Ji Won KimWhen she was in sixth grade, Ji Won Kim begged her parents to let her study

abroad. Kim didn’t care where she studied; she just wanted to study somewhere

diff erent than her native country of Korea. Her parents agreed and a week later

she was living with an aunt in Puyallup and spending her fi rst day in a Cascade

Christian classroom.“I was so shy,” she said. “I had severely misjudged the cultural shock I would go

through.”

Fast-forward to today: Kim is set to graduate this June, with her eyes aiming

for a degree in International Business. She is still narrowing down her choices

of which college to attend but said she would love to go to Purdue University.

She narrowed down her collegiate choices during her junior year in College

Guidance. Kim said her interest in International Business began two years

ago, when she would return home during the summers. Her father owns a

company in Korea and she would help him. That help turned to interest,

and after college Kim hopes to return to Korea to help her father expand

his companies. He currently has businesses in New York, Japan, and Korea.

In her time at CCHS, Kim has been a cheerleader, served on ASB, played basketball,

and was a member of Future Business Leaders of America.“Cascade Christian is such an intimate school that, as I grew up here, I received a lot of encouragement

from friends and staff ,” she said.Kim has taken full advantage of the I-term trips off ered at CCHS, and said she loves to meet new

people.

“Cascade Christian has taught me so much,” she explained. “Everything I have done here has prepared

me for the future and helped me overcome my shyness and taught me to be a leader. I have had

wonderful teachers like Mrs. Lidyard and Mr. Jacobsen. They have let me learn to be me and guided

me along the way.”

PREPARED TO IMPACT THEIR WORLD

10

Madi DuMars

When Madi DuMars was a sophomore, she felt a strong calling to

reach out to the incoming junior high girls. After much prayer,

DuMars decided she was being led to start a Bible study for other

young girls at the school.

“I made little fl yers on pieces of paper and passed them out at all the junior

high tables during lunch time.” DuMars said. “I didn’t know how this would go but I was

hoping to get at least one, and at the fi rst meeting we had, seven girls showed up. I was excited.”

DuMars said the group has fl uctuated over the last three years because of girls transferring to diff erent

schools, but currently has a steadfast group of six and said she couldn’t be more pleased.

Another senior, Gretchen Gelman, helps DuMars facilitate the group of new freshmen.

“I started this group because I remembered being in seventh grade and how badly I wished there had been

something like that when I was their age,” DuMars said.

Jonathan SadlerFor nearly two years now, Jonathan Sadler has known what God is calling him to pursue after graduation.

Sadler plans to take his passions of chemistry and leadership and hopes to go to Washington State

University. There, he plans on enrolling in the Air Force ROTC program and looks forward to earning his

Doctorate in Pharmacy. Sadler said Chemistry teacher Mrs. Miller was instrumental in her encouragement of him and his academic

goals, as was Mrs. Suiter, his Communications teacher.“Both Mrs. Suiter and Mrs. Miller would pray with me and give me their wisdom,” he

said. “I could go to them about anything at any time, even if it was during their lunch, and they would listen. If I had a question about a Bible verse, they were there for me.”

A CCS student since the second grade, Sadler said his time at Cascade Christian has been amazing.

“Cascade Christian has been a place for me to grow spiritually, where teachers care about what you do and who you are,” he said. “You can’t fi nd that in every school. Even if I am having a bad day, they are willing to listen.”Sadler has participated in cross country and soccer during his time at CCHS,

and on Sunday mornings, can be found teaching Sunday school to a group of kindergartners.“They have so much energy,” he said. “It is a huge responsibility to teach them about God every week, but I love it.”Sadler realizes nothing in life is perfect and clings to his faith as he looks to the future.

“God has always seen me through both good and bad situations, he has always guided me and provided for me,” he said. “He is with me now and will always be.”

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11

PREPARED TO IMPACT THEIR WORLD

(continued on page the next page)

Madi DuMars (continued from page 10)

Topics covered in their Bible studies have been as simple as devotions, but currently they are working through

a book on purity.

“These girls are such a light for their class, they love the Lord and are amazing girls,” DuMars said. “We meet

at 6:30 every Monday morning, and we pray for our week and each other. We try to help them visualize their

week and set goals with our eyes on God.”

It would be her hope that they would carry on the baton in her absence next year.

“They will be the same age I was when we started,” she said. “How cool to think they could carry on and be

amazing role models for another incoming group of seventh grade girls.”

DuMars has attended Cascade Christian since preschool and feels called to be a Child Life Specialist, a career

she said is a perfect fi t for her. She would love to specialize in oncology, to help kids feel calm in the face of

cancer. She hasn’t yet decided if she will attend a four-year university or a community college and then transfer

to a four-year school.

“When I took College Guidance I really learned how to research the colleges I was interested in,” DuMars said.

“The class made you think and evaluate rather than just say, ‘Oh yeah, that looks cool.’”

She added, “The teachers and administrators here are such encouragers. I’m very blessed to be at CCS and

have the example of leadership that we do; they are very humble and are amazing.”

Thomas CopelandThomas Copeland has made the most of his time at Cascade Christian. The 17-year-

old senior will graduate in June. However, in conjunction with Pierce College’s

Running Start Program, Copeland will graduate again two months later, in August

2013, with his Associate’s Degree. Running Start is a program that enables current

high school students to earn college credit hours toward their future education

goals.

Copeland, who enrolled at Cascade Christian when he was in third grade, said

he is hoping to start in the fall at Pacifi c Lutheran University as a junior.“I can’t wait to begin my journey into the world of being a computer

engineer,” he said. “I have always had a passion for technology, since

childhood, and I want to explore it.”Copeland said this has been a dream of his for the last fi ve years, but said

the College Guidance class he took as a junior helped get his mind focused on

college.

12

PREPARED TO IMPACT THEIR WORLD

David Thompson

When David Thompson was a junior in College Guidance, an assignment

changed his view on his future profession forever. One of the requirements

of the class was to do two job shadows on a career that interested you.

Thompson chose to shadow a police offi cer and a detective of the

Pierce County Sheriff ’s Department.

“It was amazing,” he said. “It completely changed how I looked at

those professions.”

Originally, Thompson thought it was as simple as “going out and

arresting the bad guys.” But he admits that afterward, his point of view

matured to one of service.

“I have such an appreciation for what I saw. They are a servant to everyone in the community

and that really appeals to me,” he explained. “My parents have raised me to think of others before

myself and in this profession I can do that.”

Citing Matthew 19:30, Thompson said, “But many who are fi rst will be last, and many who are last will be fi rst”

is something to strive for.

He hopes to attend Central Washington University, Western Washington University, or Baylor University

in Texas and, ideally, pursue a degree in Criminal Justice.

“I really want to do something where it isn’t all about me,” he explained. “I want a job where I can feel good

about what I have done when I go home at night.”

A Cascade Christian student since preschool, Thompson said one of his most memorable experiences at

CCHS was going to South Africa for last spring’s I-term.

“We worked with these kids in an orphanage and their attitude was incredible,” he said. “Everything these

kids and workers did was to honor God and show His love. It would be so easy for them to be mad and angry

about their lives, but they were so fi lled with God it was a life lesson for sure.”

Thomas Copeland (continued from page 11)

He said his time at CCS has taught him many valuable life skills and taught him “confi dence to be a leader

in his own skin, despite what circumstances come my way.” Copeland also credits a mentor he is proud to call a friend in helping to guide him during his time at Cascade Christian and as he looks to the future, Facilities Manager, Mike Breton Van Groll.“I really appreciate Mr. BVG,” he said. “His spirit, insight, charisma, and his personality I have loved. He off ers me amazingly great guidance and shares his passion for Christ with me. He has taught me to believe in myself and to put God fi rst in my life. If the world comes crashing down tomorrow, God will always be here for me.”

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ATHLETICS

New Sports Training Center to OpenNew opportunity for Excellence at CCS: Sports-specifi c Training Center.

One of the ways Cascade Christian Schools answers the call to prepare students in their purpose before God is through athletics. Athletics is an integral part of that goal and the total educational program, and now Cascade Christian Schools has the opportunity to expand the quality of that experience. To provide each student with the ability to increase the health of their heart, mind, and soul includes increasing the athletic potential, and sports-specifi c training is one key to developing this. Through the vision and generosity of supportive donors, CCS will soon open a new sports-specifi c training facility. This facility is being designed to support each and every student in their endeavor to reach their highest level of personal excellence.

Keith Patefi eld:“Over the past several years our coaches have done an amazing job preparing our athletes to meet their God-given potential through sports.  Due to the generosity of a few families, our coaches and athletes will have the amazing opportunity to continue this training in our new facility.  This facility will be equipped to enhance all of our athletes and students to prepare their bodies for excellence in sports as well as life.”

Chloe Read (senior): golf and basketball“I’m so excited for the new weight room. The new building will be double the size of what we currently have. The bigger weight room means more room for machines and greater space to lift. Previously, when we needed more space we had to go outside, regardless of weather. It will be nice to also have complete sets of weights. I mean, we are grateful for what we have now, but newer, complete sets will let us vary our workouts depending on our individual sports and goals. I play golf and basketball. Both require diff erent exercises to excel, and this new weight room helps all of us at Cascade to meet our goals.”

Jacob Kushan (senior): basketball and baseball“Currently we have to, at times, split practices. While one group lifts, the other runs drills or works on some other focus tasks. With the size of the new weight room, we can all work out

Old Weights

Concrete Pour

Almost completed…

Old Weight Room Door... soon to be transformed...

Gold Shovels from Ground Breaking

enter to Openports-specifi c Training Center.

swers before l part , and unity vide

ealth sing ning sion will ity. ch ch

ne et the etes will aining in our ance all of o r

together and build a better team cohesiveness. This will let us maximize our God-given potential in athletics.”

Logan Smelser (senior): football“In the past, we have had a serious time crunch for workouts because the demands on the weight room are so huge. The new space will be safer for all of us.”

Chevy Johnson (senior): football“The new building is much needed, and so is the new equipment planned for inside. We’ve done the best we can with what we’ve got. In my time here, we’ve had to tape things and fi x them to the best of our abilities. The new equipment won’t need so much work and everything will be much safer for current and future CCS students.”

Donations still needed to provide the proper sports-specifi c training equipment to fulfi ll the vision. Call 253-841-1776 to fi nd out more about how you can help.

14

ATHLETICS

Fall High School Sports

Way to go Cougs! Your hard work, enthusiasm, and

dedication to God’s purpose shows up on the fi eld, the

court, and the trail.

Congratulations Cougar Football on earning the

Nisqually League 1A Sportsmanship Award for the

2012 season!Watch Facebook and the web site for

updates on winter and spring sports.

JH/HS DRAMA

Student Directed: “The Velveteen Rabbit”: Friday, February 15 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, February 16 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Spring Play: “The Murder Room”: Friday, April 19 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 27 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

JH/HS CONCERT SCHEDULE

High School Spring Concert June 4 at 7 p.m.

Junior High School Spring Concert June 6 at 7 p.m.

ELEMENTARY and

EARLY LEARNING

Tacoma Elementary Instrumental Concert May 6 at 7 p.m.

Puyallup Intermediate Spring Program May 7 at 7 p.m.

Puyallup Primary Spring Program May 8 at 7 p.m.

Frederickson Intermediate Spring Program May 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Frederickson Primary Spring Program May 16 at 6:30 p.m.

Tacoma Elementary Spring Production: The Little Mermaid May 30-31 at 7 p.m.

*Program dates may be subject to change. Please check with the campus or the CCS Online District-wide Calendar at cascadechristian.org to confi rm program dates and times.

CREATIVE ARTS

15

ALUMNI

Tyler McClung Class of 2001

Tyler McClung, a 2001 graduate of Cascade Christian High School, said the examples of how God has had His hand over his life are numerous.

In his time at Cascade Christian, McClung played basketball and tennis where he was captain. He served on student council, played in the jazz band, and was president of the Key Club. He was also elected Associated Student Body president his junior year.

After he graduated, McClung attended The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, after being recruited to play tennis and being nominated by a congressman. He said accepting the Air Force appointment provided him the opportunity to mix two of his passions, tennis and service.

___________________________________

For me, to be able to see what was going on in our current events from a Christian perspective was huge for me. Mr. Clevenger gave us a true biblical view of history and I carry those principles with me to this day. ___________________________________

“While I was a senior in high school I knew I had strengths in leadership and a desire to serve others,” McClung said. “So when the chance came to utilize both of those skills at an amazing service-orientated academy, I jumped at the chance. Plus they were a Division I school and one of the top-ranked premiere academic schools in the country. It just seemed to be a right fi t for me.”

McClung said he has always had a love of service, but his most memorable high

school experience helped solidify that passion.

During McClung’s senior year, the entire senior class went on a mission trip to Guatemala to help in an orphanage for one week. While there, the students were organized into diff erent teams, and McClung served on the building and construction team. They laid concrete fl oors, helped plant landscaping, and also painted.

“I will tell you we came back from that trip united and with such deep friendships. As a class, we were so close, so tight-knit. That trip was a great culmination of events of what Cascade Christian was specifi cally all about. It was a neat experience,” he said.

There were also several teachers and administrators at Cascade Christian that he believes were placed along his path by God to help guide and mentor to him. He credits Dr. Glenna Frederick, Assistant Superintendent of Cascade Schools, and History teacher Dennis Clevenger, as being amazing role models for him as he developed spiritually and academically.

“Dr. Frederick was instrumental in the way she helped us see the bigger picture in whatever we were doing,” he explained. “Her great insight helped us make decisions. It wasn’t heavy-handed. We felt empowered by her leadership style.”

Dr. Frederick credited McClung’s self-lessness as one thing she proudly remembers about him.

“When he was ASB president, he easily could have continued on as president his senior year,” she explained. “But he humbly stepped down so another student could rise. Tyler was diligent, creative, and very supportive of everyone.”

McClung added that Mr. Clevenger’s lessons carried way beyond the classroom walls for him.

“For me, to be able to see what was going on in our current events from a Christian perspective was huge for me,” he said. “Clevenger gave us a true biblical view of history and I carry those principles with me to this day.”

Originally thinking about pursuing a career as a pilot to satisfy his fascination with fl ying, McClung soon found himself drawn to the business side of the Air Force. He graduated from the Air Force academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in humanities and then was stationed as a Contracting Offi cer at McChord Air Force Base from 2005-2008. While he was at McChord, McClung got married, and after 2008, he was next off ered a job recruiting prospective tennis players for the Air Force Academy, which he eagerly accepted.

“Recruiting was an amazing experience,” McClung said. “I traveled a ton, and met some amazing people. But the best part was being involved in helping to make some other student’s dream come true. Years ago, I was recruited and blessed with an amazing opportunity. Now here I was being able to do that for someone else. There is no better job than giving them the same opportunity I had. I believe I graduated from one of the best institutions and I wanted to pass it on.”

nstruction

(continued on page 22)

16

Hey alumni! Looking for updates? Check out the web page, or join the Alumni Association FB group to keep upwith what other CCS alumni are up to!

Join us!

Casual Family NightThursday, March 14 at the JH/HS campus

and then...

Formal GalaSaturday, March 23, 2013

at the Hotel Murano in downtown Tacoma

For more information email [email protected]

17

CASCADE FUND

Phone-a-thon

Results

Goal: $45,000Raised: $54,720

The support of our volunteers and donors helps provide tuition assistance, quality, and excellence at every school in our district.

Join us at the Ryan Moore Cougar ClassicTuesday, June 4 at the Oakbrook Golf Club

Watch the CCS website for more information.

Mark your calendar!

May 2013: Creative Arts MonthWatch for more information regarding

how you can support the arts district-wideat Cascade Christian Schools!

18

Business Partner Profi le

Passion for Cascade Christian Schools runs deep in Dr. Greg Sutherland’s family. All fi ve of his children graduated from Cascade Christian before completing college. Greg served for 15 years on the CCS board, from incorporation through 2006. “I love the Cascade Christian commitment to educate the

child while supporting the family and the church. Our kids got a great education!”

Today that commitment continues as Greg and his new partner, Dr. Ethan Larson, participate in Cascade Christian’s Business Partner program. Greg says, “I’ve always believed that businesses benefi t by sharing the important mission of Cascade Christian.”

Like CCS, Dr. Sutherland and Dr. Larson believe in caring for the whole family. In their Puyallup orthodontic practice, patients notice that diff erence from the very fi rst visit. “Being Christ-centered makes us a little diff erent from the other great orthodontists in our area. We’re about more than teeth. We’re involved in our patients’ lives, caring for their families, praying for their needs. Patients feel the diff erence in our treatment, in the staff , even in the atmosphere.” That Christ-centered diff erence was critical when it came time for Dr. Sutherland to hire a new associate.

“After thirty years, I wanted to add to our staff , but I wanted God’s candidate. Before we advertised, key staff members joined me to pray. We put together a wish list, then I added unbelievably specifi c qualities and conditions.” Later, when Greg interviewed Dr. Ethan Larson, he was astounded by how many of those qualities he found in the dentist from Alabama. “Dr. Larson isn’t just a well-trained orthodontist. He’s a committed believer who believes in our philosophy of excellence and caring.”

Dr. Larson and his wife Dolly also believe in Cascade Christian Schools’ mission. Their two oldest attend, as will their younger children. “We’ve met so many great friends through CCS. We look forward to supporting the school in every way possible. Someday, Lord willing, all our kids will be CCS graduates!”

Both Dr. Sutherland and Dr. Larson are excited by new developments in orthodontics. “A new smile is much easier to create than it used to be. Unlike the days of appliances, braces and surgeries, we can treat most adults using Invisalign.” Though technology changes, the Christ-centered atmosphere at Smiles by Sutherland is here to stay.

Dr. Greg Sutherland

and family

Dr. Ethan Larson

and family

SUPPORTING CCS

19

20

If you would like to know more about becoming a CCS Business Partnerplease contact the District Office at 253-841-1776 or go online to cascadechristian.org

and click on Support CCS/Buinsess Partners.

Harper Law Offices, Inc. P.S.

HLO

Schramm Marketing, LLC

to myself, “Yep, I can believe it.”

As last year wound to a close she knew the timing was right for her to move on.

“I know one reason I stayed for so long was because of my strong belief in what we are doing,” she said. “We are advancing the kingdom of God. Letting the journey continue isn’t the hard part. The hard part is wanting to continue to be a part of it, but I know God is leading me elsewhere.”

In the big picture, Mehrer said the timing is perfect as Cascade Christian Early Learning Centers begin a new curriculum, one that she helped choose, and said she knows the team she is leaving is an amazing one that will continue to help the children become the best they were created to be.

“The team of professionals I worked with means the world to me. The work and their friendships are what I will take with me and remember forever.”

“It wasn’t my work, it was God’s work all the way,” Mehrer simply said.

THE REST OF THE STORY…

21

Board Members Retire

Continued from page 3.

when is the right time to go,” he said. “While the right time may not always be optimal, God’s timing is, and right now He is calling me to the next chapter of my life. I have learned a ton about myself, who I am in Christ, and how I am wired. It is hard to leave behind such an incredible group of people, but the school is in good hands.”

“One smiles when they think of Peter and his contributions to the Board, because he was always thinking of our people and what was best for them,” said Superintendent Don Johnson. “Peter also spearheaded the start of our endowment, which will impact future generations.”

Laney admits the endowment is something he is personally proud of, despite it taking a few years to take shape. “Long after I am gone, that endowment, Lord willing, will be a huge resource for future students and scholarships,” he explained.

“It can open doors for Cascade Christian students to know who they are,” he said. “At CCS, they can learn what their top strengths are and why those strengths are unique to them.”

His love of Cascade Christian, its people, its mission and its students is also refl ected in his personal life verse of Psalm 51:10-12.

“I think I am so aware of God’s saving grace and I am continually reminded of what I was before Jesus came into my life,” he said. “My wife Annie and I love Cascade Christian, it is community personifi ed,” he said. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to have served. It is a great group of people, a great institution and I was privileged and honored to be involved.”

Retired member Randy Johnson agrees. The father of three CCHS graduates and one currently in high school said one of the main reasons he

chose to get involved thirteen years ago was because

of his belief in what Cascade Christian Schools are all about.

Johnson explained that he and his wife Debbie originally chose CCS for their family because “Cascade Christian was the only viable option as a Christian school with substance. We had a desire for our children to not only know God, but to be leaders, servant leaders.”

“Randy has been a mainstay on our Board of Directors for many years,” added Superintendent Johnson. “You always knew that he wanted the very best for CCS and our students, and he was willing to roll up his sleeves to help get us there. Randy’s many gifts have helped us advance toward our vision.”

In Johnson’s opinion, one of the most signifi cant happenings during his tenure on the Board was the securing of fi nancing after the Junior High/High School was built in 1998.

“It was built with lots of diff erent short-term fi nance pieces,” he said. “We were able to take those short-term fi nance pieces and pay them off with a bond program which resulted in us creating the greatest step in our fi nancial stability.”

For all future graduates of CCS, Johnson said he hopes students will be able to look back and know that they learned their purpose before God and who He created them to be. He prays they will leave knowing what their special gifts are and use them to follow God.

His life verse of Genesis 12:2 is one he has had for more than twenty years.

“There are times in my life I am overwhelmed by the amount of blessings I have received,” he said. “When it comes to my blessings, I want to be like a water hose. A hose transfers and transports water, it doesn’t store it up. Hoses are connected to a source. God is my source and I want to keep going forward and keep answering His call to show His love and be a blessing to others.”

He looks back on his time on the Board with extreme gratitude and fondness as he shares how much joy it brings him to see “young people trained up as discerning leaders in the Kingdom.”

Johnson said he is not stepping away from Cascade Christian, just simply to the side, to let other leaders develop.

“I am so thankful to those I served with,” he said. “I learned a tremendous and invaluable amount from them. You absolutely receive more blessings than you give by serving on this Board.”

Gail Mehrer

Continued from page 5.

Her passion for volunteering truly comes from her deep belief that, as Christians and parents, “stepping up is what God expects of us.”

She explained that, as a school volunteer, it isn’t her job or the team’s job to do everything. Rather, it is their work behind the scenes that lets the big picture shine through.

“Doing the small stuff opens the doors for the teachers so that they have the time to focus on what is really important, and that is building relationships with our kids. Our children are in turn enhanced by what the teachers are off ering.”

She continued, “These are not just our children, these are God’s children. They deserve our best. I serve with an amazing group of parents - parents that strive daily to show that they care. What you model will either be deplored or appreciated by your kids one day. I simply do what I am called by God to do and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

When McClung’s time in the Air Force came to an end, he felt a call to come back to Washington State. He decided to pursue a career with State Farm Insurance.

Now that he has returned, McClung said being home brings back many fond memories of his growing-up years.

“The administrators and teachers at CCS always treated me with respect and showed respect to others,” he said. “I have admired the way they lived their lives and modeled what a teacher should be.

“It’s the model I try to use for my life now,” he added. “I had coaches at Cascade I was drawn to because I loved playing for someone who had played at a high level. Both academically and athletically, they understood us and pushed us past our limits, and they did it in a way that’s tough but fair. Looking back, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without all of those teachers, coaches and administrators in my life.”

“I can look back over my time at Cascade Christian, and even after graduation, and see His guidance in my life – then and now,” McClung said.

To the current students of Cascade Christian, McClung off ers this advice:

“You can’t predict the future, but what you do can absolutely set you up for success,” he said. “The clock doesn’t start when you graduate. The clock has already begun. The habits you form now will stay with you the rest of your life. You need to start living your life looking toward what you want to be and make choices accordingly. I didn’t want something to come back to bite me and prevent me from getting where I wanted to go. Please live your life accordingly and follow God’s plan for your life.”

Today, McClung, his wife Nicole, and their 3-year-old daughter, Natalie, live in the South Hill area and attend Lighthouse Christian Center. McClung

THE REST OF THE STORY…

22

Bratvold credits his mother for what drives him the most. “I love to see people be successful in whatever it is that God has planned for them,” he said. “My mom loves to make people feel great about themselves. I try to always ask myself, ‘How can I make someone be better?’ Because the Devil wants us to be limited, but with Christ all things are possible.”

Bratvold said he once read a study which stated that when 10 percent of people have an unshakable belief, the rest will follow.

“I want my daughters and the other students of Cascade Christian to be that ten percent – to have that unshakable believe in God. That belief will then lead to fantastic role models that will make God proud.”

Bratvold knows there is a lot of work ahead of him but he relies on his faith to get him through. He is eager to help parents realize that their involvement in their child’s school is a huge part of what makes Cascade Christian successful. He is eager to work to fi nd ways to create engagement and he would love to see the big vision of expansion.

“More schools results in reaching more kids,” he said. “The more we reach, the more role models we create. The Lord always provides.

“I am very fortunate in what God has me doing in my life, in my profession and now on the Board,” Bratvold went on to say. “My wife and I couldn’t be more proud of who our daughters are becoming. I give that glory to God for equipping Don Johnson and his team with the knowledge and wisdom needed to give every child the best chance at receiving God in their heart and becoming a great role model in life. Don’s team is second to none and I am truly humbled to be a part of it.”

New Board Member AppointedContinued from page 3.

Aleitha Nickels

Continued from page 8.

is a State Farm Insurance agent in Edgewood. They enjoy traveling, getting together with their family for teriyaki every Friday night, watching all Seattle sports and, of course, Air Force football games.

Alumni Tyler McClungContinued from page 16.

Employee Recognition

Continued from page 4

10-years:Rhonda Creech, Cheryl Hodgson,Lisa Metzger, Joe Ramos,Genie Seber, Miriam Van Winkle

5-years:Heidi Bekken, Kelli Findlay,Deanna Johnson, Stacy Leeper,Katie Miller, Dave Peterson,Nicole Ramirez, Ian Scott,Brook Sikora

District Offi ce815 21st Street SE

Puyallup, WA 98372253-841-1776

See us on the web!cascadechristian.org

NON PROFIT

US POSTAGE

PAID

TEKS SERVICES

Cascade Christian Schools New Student Referral Program for child care through grade 12.

Go to cascadechristian.org/Admissions/

NewStudentReferralProgram

to fi nd out more.